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Linux for Die-hard Mac Users - Linux versus MacOS X Server Since MacOS X server is actually BSD UNIX with Mach kernel plus Apple MacOS GUI plus some Apple proprietary technologies, MacOS X shares many components with other UNIX systems like Linux and free BSD: Apache WEB server; MySQL and PostgreSQL database servers; PERL, PHP and Python scripting languages; gcc compiler and GNU C/C++ libraries. So its better to outline differences between Linux and MacOS X server, as well as advantages and drawbacks of each. Thus, only non-matching server-related features will be mentioned below.
So, does Linux really represents dangerous threat for MacOS X Server? I believe no. Mac always have been specialized platform optimized for certain needs. MacOS X Server is pretty cheap (compared to Windows NT, Novell and commercial versions of UNIX); does not require purchasing per-client license; provides many (but unfortunately far from all) features available on Linux; is easy to install and configure; and additionally; hosts very capable RAD (Rapid Application Development) tools like Project Manager, Web Objects and Cocoa. At this time in most cases for mixed Mac/PC networks Linux is preferable for both Internet and workgroup deployment because of availability of specialized software, greater hardware compatibility, better support for different network protocols and non-PostScript printers. On the other side, Web Objects, FileMaker Server, high-quality PostScript drivers, built-in color matching system and easy to use installation and administration are very strong point of MacOS X Server. PS. If you still have old AppleShare IP server package which you have used to use, MacOS X Server is probably the most easiest upgrade path. Linux administration is quite difficult for people with pure Mac mentality and no UNIX or programming background. Related article - Linux Industry Know-how and FAQ |